Landholders across South Australia are being encouraged to have their say on a draft Heritage Agreement policy aimed at providing support and encourage protection of native vegetation on private land.
Acting Manager of Native Vegetation in the Department for Environment and Water, Adam Schutz said the Heritage Agreements related to conservation areas on private land and were established between the landholder and the State Government.
Mr Schutz said they also ensured private properties were actively protected and enhanced to improve biodiversity outcomes for the State.
He said the Heritage Agreements already played an important role in improving biodiversity, protecting important bushland and achieving conservation outcomes that not only benefit the landholders but the State as a whole.
“The review will seek to clarify the intention of Heritage Agreement areas and what they can be used for,” Mr Schutz said.
He said the draft policy streamlines had been developed by the Native Vegetation Council, streamlining draft policy streamlines and clarifying decision-making processes for the new Heritage Agreements.
He said variations to existing Heritage Agreements were proposed with other actions relevant to the management and use of the areas.
“Since they were introduced in 1980, Heritage Agreements have been helping protect and restore important native bushland across South Australia and the ecosystems that depend on them,” Mr Schutz said.
“Many unique features are found within privately owned land and can often form part of an important wildlife corridor, provide an extension to national or conservation parks, or help establish private sanctuaries.”
Landolders can have their say until 16 December with the draft policy available on the ‘YourSAy’ website at this PS News link.
